大象传媒

Gap YearStanzas six to eight

鈥楪ap Year鈥 portrays the close bond of a mother and son. It describes Kay鈥檚 son鈥檚 adventures when he leaves her to travel and find independence. At home, she follows his journey and awaits his return.

Part of EnglishJackie Kay

Stanzas six to eight

Kay's son has travelled from Arctic conditions to a subtropical climate, suggesting the sheer scale of his adventure.

The grandfather warns once again of conflict in Bolivia - suggesting the (grand)parental urge to protect. But Kay's son is drawn to the open space of the salt-flats and natural world of the rainforest. The list of experiences and countries creates the impression of a young man who is looking to expand his world. This contrasts with the earlier images of his protective containment at the beginning of the poem.

And now you are not coming home till four weeks after / your due date.

Kay鈥檚 slightly exasperate tone conveys her disappointment that she will have to wait longer for her son鈥檚 return. The expression due date takes us back to the expectant mother at the beginning. Once again she can do nothing but wait for her son.